What are the average healthcare costs in New Jersey?

1 min read by Unbiased team Last updated October 4, 2024

Learn more about healthcare costs in New Jersey and some strategies for reducing them for both individuals and families.

Summary 

  • New Jersey ranks 31st in Forbes Advisor's ranking of states by expense. 

  • The Inflation Reduction Act will cap Medicare Beneficiary out-of-pocket expenses at $2,000 as of 2025. 

  • New Jersey is one of the few states that penalizes residents without healthcare insurance. 

What are the healthcare costs in New Jersey? 

New Jersey's healthcare costs are notably high, with insurance costs and direct medical expenses often exceeding the national average.  

When comparing New Jersey to surrounding states, the high cost of healthcare becomes even more prominent. For example, for an annual checkup, those living in New Jersey could face paying up to three times more than their neighbors in Pennsylvania. 

Understanding these expenses is crucial for effective financial planning. This article takes you through the different components of healthcare costs in the state, including insurance premiums, one-time fees, and long-term costs for individuals and families. 

How much are insurance premiums in New Jersey? 

The average cost of healthcare per month in New Jersey varies significantly based on plan types and coverage levels.  

The average monthly premium for individuals is just under $500, while family premiums average around $1,483 monthly. 

Subsidies through the Affordable Care Act can reduce these costs for eligible individuals and families.  

How do healthcare costs compare in New Jersey? 

Healthcare costs in New Jersey are among the highest in the United States.  

For instance, the average ER visit cost in New Jersey is $3,750, the most expensive in the US.  

A typical doctor's visit can cost between $145 and $300 for those without insurance. 

Hospital stays in New Jersey are particularly expensive, with daily costs exceeding $3,175.  

That means a person earning an average salary for the area (around $34/h) would have to work 419 hours to pay off an average hospital visit of 4.5 days. 

Prescription medications also contribute significantly to healthcare expenses, with costs varying widely depending on the drug but often ranging from $15 to over $100 for a monthly supply. 

What are the long-term care costs in New Jersey? 

New Jersey’s cost of healthcare for long-term care is also high, with the minimum hourly rate for at-home carers set at $22,33 from June 2024. However, the average rate is just short of $30 per hour.  

Staying at a nursing home costs a considerable amount — as much as 60% more than an assisted living facility. While costs vary across the state, you will pay around $11,619 for a semi-private room and $12,699 for a private room. 

What are the healthcare costs for individuals vs. families in New Jersey? 

The cost of healthcare in New Jersey differs significantly for individuals and families.  

Single individuals pay around $500 per month, compared to families who pay around $1,400 monthly.  

Deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses also vary, with individual plans often featuring lower deductibles but relatively higher out-of-pocket costs than family plans. 

Individuals can opt for high-deductible health plans and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) to minimize expenses.  

At the same time, families may benefit from comprehensive plans that offer more services. Utilizing in-network providers, preventative care, and exploring subsidies through the Affordable Care Act are effective strategies for both groups to reduce costs. 

What are the common medical visits and their costs in New Jersey? 

So, how's the healthcare system in New Jersey compared to other states?  

To get an idea of how New Jersey's average costs are for medical visits, check out the comparison with nearby states below: 

Annual checkup 

  • New Jersey: $145-$300 

  • Pennsylvania: $100-$200  

  • New York: $150-$250 

Dental Cleanings 

  • New Jersey: $100-$150 

  • Pennsylvania: $75-$125 

  • New York: $100-$200 

Eye exams 

  • New Jersey: $100-$200 

  • Pennsylvania: $75-$125 

  • New York: $100-$200 

How do you manage healthcare expenses in New Jersey? 

Managing healthcare expenses in New Jersey involves strategic planning and informed choices.  

Here are some tips to help you get started: 

  • Choose the lowest-cost health care available in New Jersey by comparing premiums, deductibles, and coverage benefits. 

  • Consider high-deductible plans with HSAs to save pre-tax money for medical expenses. 

  • Utilize in-network providers to reduce costs and explore preventative care services at no extra cost. 

  • Negotiate medical bills by discussing payment plans or discounts directly with healthcare providers. 

  • Use resources like Healthcare.gov to compare plans, Fair Health Consumer to estimate medical costs and local community health centers for affordable services. 

  • Understand your insurance benefits thoroughly to help you make cost-effective healthcare decisions. 

Get expert financial advice  

The cost of healthcare in New Jersey is notably high, impacting individuals and families. Understanding expenses such as insurance premiums, deductibles, and common medical visits is crucial for effective financial planning. Utilizing strategies like choosing the right insurance plan, using HSAs, and negotiating medical bills can also help manage these expenses. 

For personalized financial advice, consider consulting a financial advisor through Unbiased to navigate healthcare costs better and receive expert financial advice

Writers

Unbiased team

Our team of writers, who have decades of experience writing about personal finance, including investing and retirement, are here to help you find out what you must know about life’s biggest financial decisions.